acknowledge the possibility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "acknowledge the possibility" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing potential outcomes or scenarios in various contexts, such as academic writing, business discussions, or personal reflections. Example: "In our analysis, we must acknowledge the possibility that market conditions may change unexpectedly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

First, they'll never acknowledge the possibility of a bubble.

The New York Times

Knight could not even acknowledge the possibility that he was a changed man.

The New York Times - Sports

Well, I will acknowledge the possibility that I saw perhaps an eighth of one.

The New York Times - Travel

Others refused to acknowledge the possibility that Cruz and his allies might fail.

The Washington Post

Even to acknowledge the possibility was a departure from E.C.B. convention.

The New York Times

"I acknowledge the possibility that it might fail," said Mr. Underwood.

The New York Times

Neither was willing to acknowledge the possibility that the personal computer era they helped create would end any time soon.

The New York Times

But for a fleeting second, maybe we should acknowledge the possibility of a positive collective spirit emerging from terrible tragedy.

The Guardian - Opinion

When making policy, ministers seem reluctant, she argues, to acknowledge the possibility of relationships breaking down in the future.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And neither would acknowledge the possibility that their candidate might win in their state but lose the election.

The New York Times

But Putin's comments for the first time acknowledge the possibility that the hackers involved could have come from Russia.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing in a formal context, use "acknowledge the possibility" to introduce a potential outcome or situation that needs to be considered. This demonstrates thoroughness and objectivity in your analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "acknowledge the possibility" when the outcome is highly probable or already confirmed. Using it in such cases can weaken your argument and make you sound uncertain when you should be decisive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "acknowledge the possibility" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun phrase, acting as a declarative statement. It introduces an element of uncertainty while asserting the need to consider a particular outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriate usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "acknowledge the possibility" is a versatile phrase used to introduce potential outcomes or situations. Ludwig AI validates that this phrase is grammatically sound and frequently encountered across diverse contexts, particularly in news, scientific, and formal business settings. It serves to temper expectations, encourage proactive planning, and highlight the importance of considering various scenarios. While alternatives like "recognize the potential" or "accept the likelihood" exist, "acknowledge the possibility" provides a nuanced way to introduce an element of uncertainty while emphasizing the need for careful consideration. Avoid using it when the outcome is already highly probable to maintain the strength and credibility of your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

recognize the potential

Focuses on the inherent capacity for something to happen or develop.

accept the likelihood

Emphasizes the probability of something occurring.

concede the chance

Implies a reluctant admission that something might happen.

admit the prospect

Highlights the future outlook or anticipation of an event.

entertain the idea

Suggests considering something, even if not fully believing it.

consider the option

Focuses on evaluating a particular choice or course of action.

be open to the thought

Implies a willingness to accept a certain notion.

recognize the feasibility

Highlights the practicality or viability of something.

grant the plausibility

Acknowledges that something could be true or likely.

take into account the contingency

Emphasizes planning for an uncertain event or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "acknowledge the possibility" in a sentence?

You can use "acknowledge the possibility" to introduce a potential outcome or situation that needs consideration. For example: "We must "acknowledge the possibility" that the project may face delays."

What are some alternatives to "acknowledge the possibility"?

Some alternatives include "recognize the potential", "accept the likelihood", or "concede the chance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "acknowledge the possibility" or "consider the option"?

"Acknowledge the possibility" generally carries a more formal tone, suggesting a careful and deliberate consideration of potential outcomes. "Consider the option" is less formal and suggests exploring a particular choice.

When should I use "acknowledge the possibility" vs "recognize the potential"?

Use ""acknowledge the possibility"" when you want to highlight that something could happen. Use "recognize the potential" when you want to emphasize the inherent capacity for something to develop or succeed.